It was an analogy comparison...this is being used, Multi-Core MIPS64 Processors. I can't find a thermal spec sheet, and its thermal properties depend upon clock speed.

Also using Atheros AR8031 for ethernet These photos show a tear-down of the unit, which shows various components. Modem is using heat sinks, and fan is at one end of plastic "frame," so its not tied into heat sinks.

Afterburner unit has a good sized heatsink for something. These photos show a tear-down of the unit. 189°F would seem high for a CPU, but what this temperature represents is unknown.

Logic might suggest the fan would be required with higher room temperatures, and their program would shut down unit if temperature was too high. Shutdown temps for CPUs can range from 70 to 100 degrees Celsius (158°F to 212°F).

Viasat has engineered electronic equipment for years, so overlooking thermal aspects should not happen.